Malaysia Time, Climate and Weather

3 min read|Last Updated: May 24, 2023|
What’s in this article
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Talk to our experts today.

When it comes to setting up a business or thinking of where to work, climate, and time zone are important factors that guides your decision. Let’s dive deep to understand the Malaysia’s time zone, climate, and weather!

Malaysia Time Zone

The time zone in Malaysia goes by UTC +8 time. With many business hubs adopting the same time zone as Malaysia, the chances and ease of doing business together with these countries increase – the more business opportunities, the stronger the economy.

Some of the countries with the same time zone include:

  • Philippines

  • Hong Kong
  • China
  • Brunei
  • Singapore
Malaysia Incorporation Specialist Jacey

Malaysia & Its Regional Climate

The average daily temperature across Malaysia is approximately 21°C to 32°C with annual rainfalls of 2000mm – 2500mm annually. Unlike many countries in the world, being near the equator, Malaysia does not have the 4 seasons – summer, autumn, winter, and spring. However, each region has its own unique weather patterns.

  • Peninsular
    The peninsular is often categorised into:

    • East/ Southern Coast
      • Directly affected by the north-eastern monsoon
      • 2,500 – 3,000mm of rainfall annually
      • Happens usually between November to December
    • West/ Northern Coast
      • Relatively low rainfall amounts
      • Usually dry as mountains help to shield against north-eastern winds
  • Kota Bharu

    • A large amount of rainfall during November and December
    • Less than 100mm of rain every month from February to April – the best time to visit!
    • The weather between November to January are often avoided by tourists or domestic travellers
  • Langkawi

    • Usually less than 100mm of rainfall from December to March
    • The rainiest months are usually May to November
    • The hottest months are usually February to March with a recorded average temperature of 34-degree Celsius
  • Kuala Lumpur

    • Rainiest periods are from January to February and June to August
    • Heatwaves can be intense
    • September to December are the months with the lowest amount of sunshine
    • The best time to visit is May to July

Working & Living in Malaysia

The climate and time zone are easily adaptable by both foreigners and locals. With its ideal geographical location and close proximity between cities, Malaysia puts its name on the map as one of the best places to live and work.

Multi-Cultural Society

Malaysia is a multi-cultural society, the main ethnic groups being native Malays as well as large populations of Chinese and Indians. These ethnicities retain their religions, customs, and way of life. The most important festivals of each group are public holidays in Malaysia.

Group Orientation

Family is considered to be in the middle of Malaysia’s social structure. There is great emphasis on unity, loyalty, and respect for the elderly. Family is where an individual can be guaranteed both emotional and financial support. Families tend to be extended, but this differs in larger cities.

The Concept of Face

Malays, Chinese and Indians all strive to maintain face and avoid shame. Face is a concept that embraces qualities such as a good name, good character, and being held in esteem by peers. It is considered a commodity that can be given, lost, or taken away. The desire to maintain face makes Malaysian strive for harmonious relationships.

MAKE YOUR MOVE TO MALAYSIA TODAY

Come down to our office or get in touch with us virtually for company incorporation, visa applications, and other corporate services.

FAQs

Does it take long for one to adjust to Malaysia’s climate?2021-09-10T18:13:06+08:00

Those moving from other countries to Malaysia can instantly acquaint themselves with Malaysia’s climate. As the climate is rainy, hot, and humid, people from abroad who have already been living in a place which experiences such weather conditions can adjust quickly.

What times of the year is the weather most conducive for traveling to Malaysia?2021-09-10T18:13:57+08:00

The best time to visit Malaysia depends on the region of the country to be visited. The best times to visit Kuala Lumpur are from May to July and December to February because humidity is low. The best times to visit Penang are January and February; Malaysian Borneo, March to October.

Do Malaysia’s weather conditions change often and quickly?2021-09-10T18:14:19+08:00

Most of the time, weather conditions may change quickly and suddenly in Malaysia. This is especially true between June and August. The country has a tropical climate and its proximity to the sea makes its environment humid as well. The effects of the southwestern and northeastern monsoons also differ from region to region. Peninsular Malaysia in particular experiences significant changes in monsoon effects throughout the year.

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

More Business Insights

Undecided or got questions

Got other questions?

Drop us a message on WhatsApp or connect with us through our contact form.

Join the discussions

Go to Top